Q: Let’s start with introducing yourself!

A: My name is Jasmin Herzig. I am 21 and interned in the IT department at The Language Conservancy (TLC) for four weeks. I am a student at Indiana University studying for my Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science.

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Q: Can you share your experience as an intern at TLC and what you have learned during your internship?

A: My main project was the media player for the level 1 Oneida textbook. I also had side projects such as organizing app data and writing mini scripts.

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Q: What motivated you to pursue a career in IT, and how do you see this field intersecting with your passion for language revitalization?

A: I always had an interest in coding since attending numerous game development camps when I was younger. I’m getting ready to graduate next spring, so I wanted to get some experience working in a professional environment surrounded by professionals. 

I never realized that there was an organization focused on revitalizing Indigenous languages because, through all of my years in school, there were never classes offered or any information given about it. The Language Conservancy surprised me with the number of textbooks, events, apps, etc., that they support their Partners in creating, and I’ve seen how all of that is effective in engaging others to embrace Indigenous and endangered languages.

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Q: How do you envision utilizing the skills you have gained in your future endeavors?

A: The IT team was very patient and understanding as I learned the programs they use, and I’m excited to expand on those skills. I still have another year of school and I feel more confident going into graduation knowing I had this internship because of the professional work experience I gained.

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Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in language revitalization?

A: I have learned that language revitalization is vital. There are lots of different departments at TLC that all serve an important purpose. I think anybody wanting to do language revitalization work should go for it because of the meaningful impact you can make.